LVEP

LVEP

Louisiana Veteran Entrepreneurship Program

Designed to boost business opportunities for Louisiana veterans, LVEP encourages participation
from members of the U.S. military branches and the Louisiana National Guard who have
completed their service commitments and who are highly motivated to launch a new business
in civilian life. Training will include business planning, marketing, financing, capital
formation, and other skills and strategies that are key to operating a successful
small business.

The program targets training over 100 veterans in its first year. After a screening
process, selected participants will take part in a three-week online course followed
by intensive in-person training over a one- to two-day period. As veterans move forward
with their business plans, they will be guided through the business formation process
by members of the Louisiana Small Business Development Center Network, SCORE, business
incubators and others.

LVEP partners include LED, Louisiana Economic Development; the Louisiana Department
of Veteran Affairs; the Louisiana National Guard; the Louisiana Business & Technology
Center; and LSU Executive Education within the E.J. Ourso College of Business.

Participants must have access to a computer and internet connection to participate
in the three-week online portion of the course and complete assignments.

“As a veteran and small business owner, I’m proud to announce the launch of the Louisiana
Veteran Entrepreneurship Program, which will help us connect a highly skilled veteran
workforce with the specific training and resources needed to launch their own businesses.
As these dedicated servants make the transition from U.S. military and Louisiana National
Guard service, they do so with a wide array of skills, including leadership, strategic
planning, contingency planning, creative problem-solving, risk management and task
execution. These rank high among the traits required for owning and operating a business,
and what better way to honor the service of our veterans than by positioning them
for success in Louisiana’s business community.” -Governor John Bel Edwards

“The Louisiana Veteran Entrepreneurship Program will transform the skills that our
veterans possess into the complete package they need to launch their own businesses
and create their own jobs. As we honor veterans for their service, it’s our hope that
these sessions, tools and resources will promote further self-sufficiency and lead
to success in the business world for these dedicated patriots. As a veteran myself,
it’s an honor for me as LED secretary to play a role in launching the program.” -Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson